NWAS-FAll 2012.indd - Northwest Accordion Society News

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Northwest Accordion NewsAt The Mountain Lake pg 3 M7 M M M7M 7 M M 1. M 7 7 2. 1. Fine M 2. D.S. al FineM M6Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion NewsCome help us celebrate!The Victoria Accordion Club is 10 years old!**Join us for our specialOktoberfest anniversarycelebration**Saturday,October 13, 2012in beautiful Victoria, BCCanadadetails on our website:www.victoriaaccordionclub.comfall Quarter 2012 7

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Northwest Accordion NewsSeattle Accordion SocialBy Marjorie RombauerTico,” “Alley Cat,” “My Funny Valentine,” Norwegian andGerman dances, and “New York, New York.”May 14, 2012John Giuliani was the host tonight at the West SeattleSenior Center. He had organized a great program,featuring some special talents.The program began with Louis Traverso, who wasin top form and looking forward to playing in a Leavenworthcompetition. (Check the Leavenworth results inthis issue to see how he fared.) He began with the fi rstwaltz he learned, basic but melodic, followed by a fastpolka. Then he played a polka medley arranged by histeacher in the ‘30s (who later “fi red” Louis because hewasn’t practicing enough). He also played a schottischeand “Margie,” a real old-timer.Mario Tonda played next. Like Louis, he hails fromRenton, Washington, and he started playing the accordionthe same year that Louis did. Another connection– he and Jack Morrison, who appeared later with AndyMirkovich, are both still living in the houses where theywere born. Mario played a number of old time songs thatI had almost forgotten, but he made them come aliveagain. First he played a medley of “Hindustan,” “Sheik ofAraby,” and “Bye, Bye Blues,” followed by “Marie,” “TheSinging Hills,” “Spanish Eyes,” “Beer Barrel Polka,” and“Calcutta.” He, too, was in top form.Jamie Maschler, from a younger generation, followed.with the kind of challenging program we expectfrom her, starting with a classical Brazilian tango andEuropean classical Variations. She played two moreBrazilian numbers, Feita de Mangiao and DomingicnaisNo Pargive.and then her arrangement based on “CamptownRaces.” She concluded with her arrangement ofa Milonga. Jamie’s music showcased a number of accordiontechniques such as vibrato, repeated notes, andbellows shakes along with fl awless playing.Bonnie Birch and Nick Heiting then played a programof dance music in their inimitable style, “CherryPink and Apple Blossom Wine,” “Siboney,” “I’m ConfessingThat I Love You,” and “Deep Purple.” They alsofeatured Jack Morrison on drums for one number.Andy Mirkovich then played a program with JohnGiuliani on string bass and Jack Morrison on drums.Andy said that it was impromptu, and it was informaland relaxed, including requests from the audience.They started with a medley of “The Nearness of You.,”“Don’t Blame Me,” and “Twilight Time.” Then, for Mario,they played Ciribribin, followed by a variety of music,“Never on Sunday,” “Silver Threads Among the Gold”(which Andy said Willie Nelson stole from a Croatian folksong), “Edelweiss,” “You Can’t Be True,” “Brazil,” “TicoJune 11, 2012This evening at the Swedish Club was Cooksienight, featuring the students of Cooksie Kramer andthe music of her Northwest Accordionaires Orchestraand its members. But, it began early with a surpriseduo.Thesurprise duowas Cricketand Snail,featuringLucie Carlsonplaying a violinand JamesCarlson playingan accordion.Othersin the audiencereportedthat it was aninteresting andentertainingprogram, but I missed it because I was hunting for aparking spot.But, I was in the audience when the formal programbegan with numbers by Cooksie and Jim Lofgrenplaying accordions and Lionel Kramer on drums.They played a German Fingertanz, a Piazzolla selectionand a medly of“St. James Infi rmary,”“Basin Street Blues”and “Lazy River.”As usual, it wasa rousing introductionto the evening ofmusic.The students’music began with ajaunty young PaulTrublood playing adiffi cult El Companiso.The secondplayer was another young, self-assured player, FilumenaSweet, who played “Tango of Roses” and popmusic. Anthony Pierce played a number from Cirquede Soleil, minor and sometimes sounding like a calliope.Then members of the Accordionaires played so-fall Quarter 2012 9

Northwest Accordion Newslos. Duru Rotoveiplayed interestingRomanian musicand Paula Wallenius,a new memberof the Accordionaires,playedinteresting Finnishmusic, followed byGreg Perry, whoplayed the tangofrom “Scent of aWoman.”.followed by a medley of Russian Music. The nextnumber presented a selection of songs from “Phantomof the Opera..” It began with a quiet and elegantintroductory passage and then ranged from delicateto bombastic and back again. Following a tango, ElCampanero, they played the classical “Regina Overture”and concluded with a medley of Italian musicand selections from “My Fair Lady.” As Bonnie Birchnoted in introducing the orchestra, they continue along tradition of accordion ensemble playing. Playingwith the group this evening were Jim Lofgren, RayKujawa, Lionel Kramer on drums, Lisa Tracy, RickHatley, Marla Donaldson, Martin Tracy, Clayton Murrayon Tuba, Gordy Lippmann, Brenda Bard, Doru Rotovei,Greg Perry, Paula Wallenius, and David Locke,with, of course, Cooksie Kramer directing.Then a surprise– accordion-playerRay Kujawa playinga diatonic button box.He has long been interestedin the instrumentand indulgedhis interest by buyingone and learning toplay it. He playedtwo traditional folknumbers arranged byHans Auer-Auerbach,an advocate for teaching and preserving traditionalmusic. The numbers he played were KogelstraßenLandler and Inzeller Harfenlander. His playing wasquite expressive.Gordy Lippmann played Malagueña with sustainedbellows shaking in the beginning and emotionthroughout. David Locke played his signaturre piece,There were no Seattle Socials in July or August.For SaleTonaveri MIDI AccordionModel 1000Imported and sold by Joe Spano(Only 5 Tonaveri MIDI accordionsmade)Rhinestone grille.13+Master/9 switchesValse Allegra and a tango, Boulange, which becamean American popular song.The Accordionaires then presented their program,beginning with a rousing “American Patrol,”10Fall Quarter 2012$4700Arralde Accordion Co.24204 - 132nd Ave. SEKent, WA 98042(253) 639-7000

Northwest Accordion NewsAUTUMN ACCORDION SOCIALFOREST GROVE, ORSpecial Event!!Sunday, October 14, 20121:30 PM – 5:00 PMForest Grove Senior and Community Center2037 Douglas StreetForest Grove, ORAdmission: adults $5.00Hosted by Doris OsgoodFor the Northwest Accordion SocietyWe’re going to break the mold for this autumn’s social. Alicia Baker, thereigning Happy Hans champion from the Kimberley International Olde TimeAccordion Competitions, will be a guest performer. No player has ever beenfeatured at the socials, but this opportunity was too great to pass up!Performance opportunities are still available as usual. Players will sign in toplay: 2 selections or one lengthy piece. There will be a break for light refreshmentsand the 50/50 drawing benefiting the Chester PIetka AccordionScholarship Fund. Then Alicia will perform at 3:45 PM. Invite your friends ;it’s going to be a great afternoon of accordion music.Note also that the date is not our usual. Avoiding a conflict with the TrophyMondiale in Spokane, the autumn social was moved up. We will be back tothe 4th Sunday in April and October, 2013.For information, contact Doris Osgood: 503-357-0417, dorisosgood@frontier.comJoin us in Forest Grove just for the fun of it, as my husband alwayssays.fall Quarter 2012 11

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Northwest Accordion NewsCELEBRATION IN LEAVENWORTHBy Doris OsgoodAllison Wheeler, Doris, and Emily WheelerAfter long months of planning and concern aboutthe rainy spring weather, we gathered in Leavenworth,Washington to celebrate the accordion. The rain endedand the temperature was perfect. It was an omen forgood things.The Leavenworth International Accordion Celebrationhas several components and is taking on an identitythat is its own. The Northwest Accordion Society waslooking for a music festival for the entire family and thatvision came together for this year’s event in June.As many know, there is music provided downtownat the gazebo and grange that is free to the general public,nightly concerts, instructive workshops, accordionparade, competitions and jamming in the local restaurantsuntil the wee hours. My own perspective of LIACcomes from my days at the gazebo stage downtown.I’ve observed the general tourist crowd for many yearsand was so pleased to see that the number of visitors intown was looking more like it did prior to the economicbust of 2008. That was very encouraging.The music at the gazebo was the best ever! Playersfrom throughout the region committed to perform andkept continuous, quality entertainment going for 3 ½days. On Friday and Saturday a large ensemble gatheredto play together. Rick Hatley has been our faithfulcoordinator of that piece of the event for many years.Everyone looks forward to playing and many come toLeavenworth just for that opportunity. The impromptugroup holds a large audience at each performance. It’sfun for everybody.I had a serendipitous experience at the grange onSaturday afternoon. The Seattle area Northwest Accordionaireshad just fi nished a program for a PACKEDroom. They had been warmly received and audiencewas beginning to disperse the hot space. I’d asked CoryTideman to play after the Accordionaires that afternoonto maintain music after their program ended. He gra-fall Quarter 2012 13ciously agreed. As it turned out, Juan Barco walked inwith his guitars. John Giuliani hadn’t yet put his stringbass away. Cory cajoled them to stay. Cory started atune and the two string masters joined in. Soon peoplewere peeking in from the street, and then fi nally comingin. People began dancing, hooting, and clapping. Icouldn’t have planned anything like this! I enjoyed watchingJohn; he was grinning continually. Juan is a party allby himself. His skill on the bajo-sexto and bass guitarcould make any of us sound good. He hoots and sings.The three guys were exhausted and dehydrated but theaudience didn’t want them to stop. As Andy Mirkovichsays,” Leave the audience with their wanting more.”Cory, John, and Juan did just that. I will never forget it.We have come to expect outstanding concert performancesin Leavenworth. Booking performers andhaving all of the schedules align is challenging. Thisyear, everything worked out! Each of the three eveningswas unique and displayed virtuoso skill in different musicstyles and instruments. Jelena Milojevic demonstratedwhy she receives international acclaim. She is a bayanmaster. Her program included a contemporary piecewith auditory images of the old Soviet gulags as wellas a Russian polka that could not be played on a pianoaccordion. She continued with great stuff like “LieberTango”, “Flight of the Bumble Bee”, and “Dark Eyes”. Mypersonal favorite may have been the Spanish Dance.Jelena’s program was followed by the B.C. AccordionOrchestra from Victoria. Their program began witha couple of lovely French waltzes played by a strollingduet. Jelena’s husband, Aleks took the baton and ledthe orchestra through its paces. They played boogie/jazz /Scott Joplin style, Grieg’ s Hall of the Mt. King,“Adios Nonino”, beautiful Ukrainian melodies, Baroqueand classical pieces, and a rousing “Sabre Dance” foran encore. It was thrilling to hear a well honed accordionorchestra playing COMPLEX, melodic arrangements.The audience was able to grasp the accomplishmentand appreciated their musicianship.Mike and Marjorie Aman performed on Friday evening.They are masters of the MIDI accordion. Theyplayed tight duets on great arrangements. Their programcould have been dubbed “American Classics”. The audiencewas thrilled to hear familiar tunes like, “12th St.Rag”, Glenn Miller favorites, and dance tunes. Prior tothe Aman’s program, there was a preconcert by buttonbox players. Polkas, waltzes, and landlers set the stagefor the Aman’s.Saturday night was one we’d looked forward tofor some time. Jorgen and Lena Sundeqvist were ableto fi t Leavenworth into their schedules. They residein Norway. An “international palooza” orchestratedby Bonnie Birch was the preconcert. Italian, Mexican,

Northwest Accordion NewsFrench, and Russian selections started the evening.Jorgen and Lena played tight duets with skill and finesse.Jorgen’s massive “Petosa Cathedral” model accordionand Lena’s bayan blended perfectly displaying richacoustic sound. Jorgen, as affable as when he was ayoung player touring with Maestro Galla Rini in the early1980’s, introduced each selection. He could mesmerizean audience by reading the phone book with his charmingSwedish accent! Lena and Jorgen played obscure,melodic classical pieces together. The latter portionof the program, Lena played violin with Jorgen on accordion.We were reminded at the beauty of accordionand strings. They masterfully played. As an encore, theyplayed the Norwegian polka, “Bacon and Eggs”. EinarTapio is the only person I’ve ever heard play that! Theaudience didn’t want the evening to end. Jorgen andLena stayed for a long while signing CD’s and visiting.Jorgen had been in the United States on a number ofoccasions and had met many people through his time atthe Galla-Rini Accordion Camps at Silver Falls, Oregon.Many were anxious to become reacquainted. Jorgenaccommodated everybody.The competition is an important part of this musicfestival. It is a costly but vital part of the event, inmy opinion. Rod Miller and I were able to establish abursary program for young players this year and prizemoney was increased a bit. Our accordion communityresponded to our request for donations to make thishappen. Sixteen players under the age of 18 appliedand were awarded bursaries for their effort. It wasthrilling to see more young people participating in thecompetition and to see the growth that they made sincewe last heard them. A 3rd grader from Leavenworthhad communicated with me over several weeks aboutparticipating. He had found an accordion and was tryingto teach himself to play. Many people responded to hiseager, earnest desire and helped all they could. TheCompetition and Bursary program will require continualfundraising to maintain. We believe that it is importantand that our accordion community will support that.The celebration in Leavenworth couldn’t happenwithout a vast army of volunteers. We had people fromthe Leavenworth community and from accordion peoplethroughout the region. I must mention the extra ordinaryefforts by John Giuliani and Cory Tideman. They playedwhenever asked. Also part of our volunteer staff wasone that was out of sight most of the time. Dick Mykingworked long hours providing “free accordion lessons.We thank all of those who sponsored the event with theirmoney and their time. Special thanks to Projekt Bayern,the City of Leavenworth, and to Heidi Forcheimer ofAndreas Keller. Heidi always keeps her restaurant openextra hours and maintains a full staff too. Additionally,she brings her horse and cart for the parade. We thankLetters to the EditorDear NWAS,Thank you for the reminder about dues. I struggleto keep these things going while working on my book,“Playing Well”. It will go to print soon now.Best of Everything,Lynda, Grand Rapids, MIDear NWAS,Thank you for the subscription reminder. Pleaserenew my membership for 2 years. I’d also like to senda subscription to a friend.Sincerely,Paul Francis, East Wenatchee, WADear NWAS,Thanks again for all the work your staff does inputting out the NWAS quarterly. Always wished I couldhave played well enough to participate in some of theevents. I’m 87 now and have pretty well given up onpracticing any more.Sincerely,Dale R. Schwager, Vancouver, WAThe Best Magazine Ever!!Cooksie Kramer, Kirkland, WAThanks for the reminder! Sending my NWAS dues.Keep up the GOOD work and Many Thanks.Margorie J. White, Yacolt, WADear NWAS,Please renew my membership for TWO years. Oneyear is too short anyway.Thank you very much.David Locke, Vancouver, WAour faithful vendors. They put in LONG hours at thefesthalle. Everyone attending appreciates their servicesand expertise.Thanks to Bonnie Birch, the master planner, SteveBerg our Festhalle Commander, Wing Man Rick Webber,Parademeister/competition sergeant Rod Miller, and VolunteerCommandant Frank Bruckner. Geoff Levear wasour Bankmeister (the guys referred to me as GazeboCommander) No event can be described as “perfect”,but we did a lot of things right! It was undoubtedly ourbest ever, in fact. Thank you all for your hard work.Discussions are ongoing on the adjustments to nextyear’s celebration. It’s called “Learning by Doing”. Markyour calendars today; let’s gather in Leavenworth June20 – 23, 2013 for the love of the accordion.14Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion NewsTHANK YOU!!!Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration Sponsorswww.accordioncelebration.orgVirtuoso Sponsors - $2,000 or moreNorthwest Accordion SocietyProjekt BayernMajor Sponsors - $500 or moreCity of LeavenworthLeavenworth Chamber of CommerceHeidi Forchemer (Andreas Keller)John Gulbranson, in memory of Jean GulbransonMonarch Accordions (Co-sponsoring Mike and Marjorie Aman)Petosa Accordions (Co-Sponsoring Jorgen and Lena Sundeqvist)Roland AccordionsSpokane Accordion EnsembleTempo Trend Accordions (Co-Sponsoring Jelena Milojevic)Business SponsorsBavarian Village Business AssociationBavarian Village Business AssociationThe Taffy Shoppe/Cary SangerAccordion Players, Accordion Clubs, Friends of the AccordionKatherine AllenPaul & Judy BriaBonnie BirchFrank BrucknerJim BrylskiSusan CullettoEugene DedaThe John R. Giiuliani Sr. Student Scholarship FundSandra HamblinHugo’s Accordion BandGeoff & Joyce LevearCarolyn McCauleyAndy & Mary MirkovichNorthwest Accordion Teachers AssociationNWAS Socials of Forest GroveNWAS Socials of SeattleDrs. James & Shirley O’BrienOkanagan Accordion ClubWilliam RitterRose City Accordion ClubMurl Allen SandersLou TraversoTualatin Valley AccordionistsDick VolinMichael H. WaldmanRick & Eileen WebberConnie Weimer (in Memory of Frank Marocco)We truly appreciate all of the sponsors who helped to make LIAC 2012 a great success! Please givepatronage to our business sponsors and help us express our appreciation!Virtuoso sponsors and Major sponsors will received a prominent position on our website, magazine,festival fl yer, and information booths. IN addition, they were thanked on stage at the Festhalle, grangeand gazebo at appropriate times.If you are interested in donating, please send your check (made payable to Northwest Accordion Society)to NWAS/LIAC, 5102 NE 121st Ave. Unit 12, Vancouver, WA 98682.fall Quarter 2012 15

Northwest Accordion NewsNews from SylviaWe were active playing for a couple of monthssince returning the 1st of May but then things dried up.Actually, I needed some time off and am going to startcutting back. Because of back pain, discovered I havea spine curvature. Duh! Most likely due to playing heavyaccordions since I was 11 and just need to slow downor go back to a reedless accordion. I played one for sixyears and should have stayed with it. I still love and playmy Petosa 1000 but I use the Hohner Gola that Donbought for me for a wedding present as my polka box.When one is playing old accordions it is nice to havea backup. I am playing most of my jobs without a livedrummer now using the dance rhythms on the KetronSD-3. I am proud that I was able to program it by myselfand it works well for me. I use the live drummer for theAZ polka gigs or if my brother, Paul, is available. He andI are in sync so love having him play with me. He drovedown to Laughlin NV when our AZ band played a threedaypolkafest sponsored by the Tropicana Casino. It wasexciting and lots of fun. The fi rst night we performedoutside where passers-by could see and hear us. Therewere huge speakers on the roof so they could hear usall the way to Bullhead City. The next two evenings werein the ballroom where we shared the stage with TheVaritones, a Polish Band from Phoenix.I really have two bands now. In the Southwest, forthe winter season, we go by either SYLVIA’S BAND orSYLVIA’S AZ BAND. While in the Northwest or whenplaying Scandinavian Old Time Venues, we go bySYLVIA and the FJORDSONG BAND. We are alwaysavailable as a DUO TRIO or a 4-PIECE BAND.We have a couple of exciting Bavarian festivalscoming up here in the Northwest. They are: Sept 30and 31 SAT/SUN. Our 4 piece band will play at Bruno’sEuropean Café 10716 A St S Tacoma WA. It is just off16Fall Quarter 2012Highway 512 between Lakewood and Puyallup. Weplayed there last year and they hired us for two daysthis year. The café is small with fantastic food but forthis event a tent is put up in the parking lot. They servethe food and beverages there, and we have fun entertainingthem with German music. We start with dinnerand play till ? It is set up Oktoberfest style with peoplesitting at long tables and a postage stamp dance fl oorfor Chicken Dance, polkas waltzes and more. We evendo some “sing-a-long” and lots of “prosts.” It is really alot of fun. Families are welcome.Oct 12 and 13 (FRI/SAT). This will be our 21st yearto perform at the Deming Logging Show Oktoberfest. Itis located at 3295 Cedarville Rd. Bellingham WA. Weplay from 1:30 to 6 PM. The evening session is playedby The Polkatones Band 7 PM to midnight. Advancetickets call 1-360-592-3051. Free RV Parking Must be21 to enter.Our other NW gigs are private.Sylvia Jorgensen, squeezeboxsyl@yahoo.comCheck our website: www.fjordsong.comSylvia’s NW Dance Band, “Ya Sure Ya Becha” 4-pieceor 3 pieceSylvia’s Arizona Dance Band, 4-piece, 3-piece or duo

Northwest Accordion NewsCompetitionAwards 2012Leavenworth Open1. Logan Stephens2. Diane Hagen3. Lillian JonesPopular Open1. Logan Stephens2. Diane Hagen3. Naomi HarrisLight Classical Open1. Yevgeniy Nosov2. Logan Stephens3. Maggie GrobeyOld Time Duets1. Grobey/Stephens2. Hagen/Miller3. Nosov/WismerOld Time Diatonic1. Dave Emter2. John Schirr3. Ray KujawaLeavenworth International Accordion CelebrationVariety V (12 and under)1. Allison Wheeler2. Naomi Harris3. Holden TubbsLight Classical 1 (18 and over)No entriesLight Classical II (13 - 17)1. Kassie Patterson2. Anthony Pierce3. Michael BarbarossaLight Classical III (12 and under)1. Emil Haroldsen2. Allison Wheeler3. Filumena SweetYev, Maggie & LoganOld Time Band1. Grobey Family2. Portatos3. Happy WanderersVariety 1 (68 and over)1. Gary Malner2. Lillian Jones3. Louis TraversoBursary RecipientsVariety II (50 - 67)1. Doris Osgood2. Eileen Webber3. Jack DonahueVariety III (19 - 49)1. Maggie GrobeyVariety IV (13 - 18)1. Robert DeGoebe2. Michael Barbarossa3. Lilian DeckGrobey Family BandLillian, Logan and Dianefall Quarter 2012 17

Northwest Accordion NewsTacoma Accordion SocialsBy Eloise AdairJuly 12, 2012In June we did not have a social because it was hefirst day of the accordion celebration in Leavenworth andso many of our players were there. On the 12th of Julywe met in the picnic area of Trinity Lutheran Church fora picnic. The weather was great and so was the food.At 7 p.m. we went into Thompson Hall for our program.We had 56 in attendance and Rick Hatley on accordionand Sean Tarazos on tuba were our fi rst performers.They are called Ar’d Ana Polka Band and played “DasShone land”, “Domowina”, “Heidi’s Waltz”, and “HappyWanderer”. Next we had another duet, David Emter andMimi Emerson, both playing button box. Accordions.They played “Tony’s Polka”, “Mota Dekla Polka” and“Give Back My Heart Waltz”.Our next player was Linda John playing “All of Me”,“ Accordion Boogie” and “Georgia on my Mind”. She wasfollowed by Michael Barbarossa playing “Amor”, “Yesterday”and “Spanish Eyes”. Charlie Brown was nextplaying “Poinciana”, “Begin the Beguine” and “CanadianSunset”. After a short break Dick Svensson, who droveall the way from north Seattle, played “Lokkeren Waltz”,“Sammel Reinlaender”, “Tronder Brua”, “In HeavenThere Are Pancakes” and “Life in the Finnish Woods”.“Our last player was Toby Hanson playing “Ohio Polka”,“Pigale”, “Under Paris Skies” and “San Antonio Rose”.August 9, 2012We had 43 at our nice summer accordion social.Dorene Fox was our fi rst performer playing “Melody ofLove”, “Autumn Leaves”, “Dark Eyes” and “ Let Me CallYou Sweet heart”. One of our new members, LindaJohn, was next playing “Liechensteiner Polka”, “Flightof the Angels” , “Anapola” and “Georgia On My Mind”.Bob Westlund was our next player. He played “OklahomaWaltz”, “The Blonde Sailor”, “Patrona Bavaria” and“Texas Waltz”. Then Ray Benz played a French piece“On Danse ala Villette” and Sousa’s “Thunderer March”.Annie Liedtke entertained us one concertina playing“Campbell’s Farewell to Redcastle”,and “Johnny’sWedding”. Then she put her concertina down and pickedup her I-phone. She showed us that it had a picture ofbuttons on it so she played “Scarborough Fair”. Thenshe put it down and picked up an I-Pad that had morebuttons on it and she continued “Scarborough Fair”.Dick Svensson was next on his diatonic accordionplaying “Lokkeren”, “Gammel Reinlands” and “Res & EllaCampanola”. Then Mimi Emerson played on a similaraccordion. She played “June Waltz”, “Orphan Waltz”62nd Trophée MondialDear Fellow Accordionists,For the fi rst time the United States has the honorof hosting the 62nd Trophée Mondial – a PrestigiousInternational Accordion Competition. Spokane, Washingtonis the hosting city for this championship event.The World Trophy Accordion organization will presentthe Trophée Mondial at the Bing Crosby Theater,Oct. 23-27, 2012. This prestigious competition willbring some of the best and the brightest of the accordionworld to the United States for the fi rst time, foran exciting week of grueling mastery of technique andsound. Similar to the Olympics, accordionists from Asia,Europe, Australia, North America, South America, andAfrica will showcase their considerable talent.As an opportunity to have the Accordionists or AccordionEnthusiasts of United States a part of this year’sTrophée Mondial – a day or evening will be set aside toshowcase to the world that the Accordionists of USA arealive and well and will be a major sponsor of the event.A major sponsor donates $8500. Everyone givinga portion as they are able (any amount) will be a partof the “Accordionists of USA.” Every major sponsorwill have their name and logo on the backdrop screenof the stage in view of TV cameras that are fi lming theevent for live-streaming. In this case, the name of everyperson giving will be in the offi cial Program Book.If you would like to be a part of this please visit:www.worldtrophyaccordion.org/AccordPlease specify how you would like your name toappear in the 2012 Program Book.The USA organization “World Trophy Accordion”hosting Trophée Mondial is a non-profit organization. Atax-deductible letter will be sent to all those participating.Thank you for your consideration,Patricia Bartelland “Camp Waltz 94”. Our next player Dennis Perryplayed his piano accordion. He played “Just AnotherPolka”, “Walkin’ in The Sunshine”, and “Henry FordSchottische”. It was good to see Phil Capetto who hasbeen busy working. He played “You Are My Sunshine”and “Donino”. Toby Hanson had a day off so he cameand played for us. He played a French number “ReveilMusette” , “Yeskovin Polka”, “Jantgubben” , “PennsylvaniaPolka” and “Beer Barrel Polka”. Toby usually playswith his band the Smilin’Scandinavians.18Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion NewsYodel-ay-ee-hoo! A Polka Tradition Returnsto Oregon’s Little SwitzerlandBy Chuck AndersonOregon’s Alpenfest is back.Thousands of visitors enjoyed this Swiss-Bavarianfestival at Wallowa Lake in northeast Oregon, whereit was a late-summer institution from 1975 to 2007. Ithad been started by the small Wallowa Lake businesscommunity in recognition of the area’s reputation as“Oregon’s Little Switzerland,” since the snow-cappedWallowa Mountains and the glacial lake were reminiscentof the Swiss Alps.There was dejection all around following the fi nalAlpenfest. An attempt at a more eclectic music festivalin 2008 didn’t attract Alpenfest regulars, and the traditiondied. Shop owners at the lake and in the nearby townsof Joseph and Enterprise frequently found themselveshaving to deliver the news to disappointed tourists.All that is history now. A group of Joseph residentsand businesspeople, joined by people from the lakeand Enterprise, have revived Alpenfest in an expandedformat. True to its roots, it will reflect Swiss and Bavarianculture and cuisine, with polka music featuring accordions,alphorn blowing and Swiss yodeling.Instead of a three-day format, however, it will extendover four days, and there will be activities in Enterpriseand Joseph as well as at the lake.The new Alpenfest will take place this year onThursday, Sept. 27, through Sunday, Sept. 30, and onthe last weekend of September in succeeding years.It is organized as an event of the Joseph Chamber ofCommerce.Organizers are booking street musicians to play inJoseph during Saturday and Sunday of Alperifest. Forinformation, contact Chuck Anderson, the Alpenmeister,at aipenmeister@Znet.comor 541-432-0209.As for Swiss-German cuisine, local purveyors haveclimbed aboard. Mt. Joseph Family Foods, a grocerystore in Joseph, has developed new fl avors of its handcraftedJoseph Trading Post bratwurst. Terminal Gravity,the acclaimed Enterprise-based microbrewery, is brewingan Alpenfest ale in the German tradition. LathropCountry Wines of Joseph has made its fi rst Reisling,dry-style Alpenfest Polka-Up Wein, using Napa Valleygrapes.Those three have signed on as Alpenfest sponsors,along with an array of other businesses and agencies.These include the Wallowa Lake Tourism Committee,the cities of Joseph and Enterprise, Wallowa County, theWallowa Lake Tramway, the Stubborn Mule Saloon andSteakhouse, Wallowa County Chamber of Commerceand Wildhorse Resort and Casino.Alpenfest also will feature an Alpine Art, Antiqueand Craft Fair with vendors from near and far. This isan expanded version of the Alpine fair started two yearsago at Lakeside Interiors in Joseph by its owner, LynnWolf. Vendors will be located at her shop, on Pine Street,in The Sports Corral’s parking lot and across the streetin the Wallowa County Brokers building, formerly theManuel Museum. Vendors who want to set up in frontof the Edelweiss Inn at the lake, traditional location ofAlpenfest’s vendor booths, will be located there.Thursday activities will be centered in Enterprise.There will be a Main Street procession open to all, anopening ceremony at the Wallowa County Courthousegazebo including music and the tapping of the fi rst kegof Alpenfest ale plus a special showing of “The Soundof Music” at the OK Theatre where each attendee isencouraged to come dressed as a character from themovie and to sing along.On Friday, the Alpine Fair opens at noon and therewill be street musicians in Joseph. The Polkatonesdance band will play from 7 to 11 p.m. in the ThunderRoom at the Joseph Rodeo Grounds. Swiss yodeler LisaWard and The Tyrolean Dancers also will be involved,as will bratwurst, beer and wine.All during the weekend, area shops and restaurantswill offer Alpenfest specials.Entertainment moves to the Edelweiss Inn at WallowaLake on Saturday, with Polkatones performancesfrom 1 to 5 and 7 to 11 p.m. There will be other entertainmentbetween their performances. An Alpine breakfastis scheduled from 8 to 11 a.m. The Alpine Fair will beopen from 10 a.m. to sunset at Joseph and the lake.There also will be street musicians in Joseph.Sunday will bring theAlpine breakfast at thelake from 8 to 11 a.m., afi nal Polka tones performancefrom 11 a.m. to 2p.m. and the Alpine Fair inboth locations from 8 a.m.to 3 p.m.Details are availableat the Alpenfest website,orgeonalpenfest.com.fall Quarter 2012 19

Northwest Accordion News20“It’s All Good! Eh!”Fall Quarter 2012Have you ever thought about why it’s called the“Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration”?If you were in Leavenworth, Washington for the 2012Celebration, you experienced the answer. Besides theperformers, who came from Washington, Montana,Norway, Canada, and Croatia, many of our volunteersalso hailed from other countries and locales.As the “Volunteer Commandant,” (so proclaimed byDoris Osgood) I had the awesome task of coordinatingthe volunteers for this year’s event. I fi rst volunteeredfor this position, after watching Bonnie Birch performthis task the last two years by herself! It still amazesme that she was able to pull this off, while coordinatingthe event, being one of the evaluators at the Grange,performing on stage and then rounding out the day byjamming at night. If you have ever watched a jugglerperform, that would be Bonnie Birch!Throughout the 3 days, there were concerts,workshops, evaluations, and competitions, all of whichwere managed by some very talented and generousvolunteers, who gave freely of their time. It wouldn’t bepractical to list all of the names, but a large thank youis in order to all who took the time out of their busy livesto help us this year.If you came by the front counter at the Festhalle,checked out the music at the Gazebo, the activities atthe Grange, or attended one of the evening concerts,then you were met by LIAC Volunteers, all of whomwere wearing a beautiful gold colored LIAC 2012 t-shirt,which featured a beer stein design, with an accordion inthe center. Each volunteer received a free LIAC t-shirt.The LIAC pin and t-shirt logo, which were designed bySue Janossy, really captured the spirit of our celebrationand what LIAC is all about.I also have to give kudos to Rick & Eileen Webberfor coming up with the Volunteer buttons this year. Inaddition to making commemorative 2012 Volunteerbuttons for each volunteer, they also crafted “special”buttons with individual pictures for Steve Berg, the“Hall Commander,” Rick Webber, “Wingman,” BonnieBirch, “LIAC Commander,” Doris Osgood, “GazeboCommander,” Rod Miller, “Competition Sergeant,” andmyself, “Volunteer Commandant.”Among those volunteering, a few answer the questionas to why this is an “International” event. My fi rstday as “Commandant” I was introduced to Gordon andEvelyn Groening, who worked all three days at the frontcounter in the Festhalle. Some of you may know Gordon,he plays in a group called the “Gordonairs” and hailsfrom Canada. (FYI, he will be playing in Leavenworthat their Autumn Leaf Festival September 28-30.) Gordontaught me that regardless of the issue at the frontcounter, a ready smile and the saying, “It’s all good, eh”made everyone smile.Another familiar face at Leavenworth this year wasFrank Calapristi. In past years Frank was the drivingforce behind LIAC and continues to give generouslyof his time. He is an amazing resource and wealth ofknowledge and I had the opportunity to talk with him onseveral occasions and learn about the history of the accordioncompetitions and concerts held in Leavenworth.It was truly inspiring to hear him talk about bringing DickContino for a concert and jamming after hours at KingLudwig’s.It was fascinating listening to him talk about attendinga dinner party in Seattle in 1995, with some of thegreat names in the accordion world, like Joe Petosa Sr.,Joe Petosa Jr., Anthony Galla-Rini, Carmen Carrozza,Norm Seaton, Joe Morelli and Jorgen Sundeqvist. Accordingto Frank, they passed around Carmen Carrozza’saccordion and took turns playing a couple of songs.Frank also managed to jam a couple of nights afterthe concerts were over at King Ludwig’s, with BonnieBirch, Toby Hanson, Elaine Webber, Johnny Vukonichand others. Wow! Hearing them play together was simplyfantastic, and if you haven’t seen Bonnie Birch dance,you are really missing out. Frank Calapristi played hiscustom mahogany Petosa 96 bass accordion handmadein Italy. His accordion is one of the most beautiful instrumentsI have ever seen and has the sweetest soundyou can imagine.Another couple, who gave unselfi shly of their time,was Caryl and Tom Dowell. They are both retired fromthe U.S. Army and were stationed in Germany for manyyears. Although neither of them play the accordion, theycome here every year and volunteer, largely due to theirlove of all things German and the accordion music. Infact, a pact was made this year amongst a group of ussitting around dark cold beverages one night to take avacation in Germany next year and hear some ethnicGerman accordion music at the source.Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t single out LarryMeyer of Projekt Bayern who also lives in Leavenworth.His volunteer efforts everyday at the Festhalle andthroughout the year as our Leavenworth contact reallyhelped to make this event special. He is a fantasticresource and was able to answer all of those questionsthat only a “local” could answer.All said and done, volunteering this year and meetingthose who gave so generously of their time was atrue inspiration and the best time I have had at Leavenworth.Thanks to all who volunteered for making thisa very successful and memorable year.If you are interested in volunteering next year, youcan reach me by email at SQZBOX@Dishmail.net, or

Northwest Accordion Newsby phone at (208) 266-0212. If you call, just ask forFrank Bruckner, my wife won’t let me use the term,“Commandant,” until next year!VolunteersPerformersDancersandTHEParade!Castiglione AccordionsWe are one of the principle peoplein selling the new “Virtual RolandReedless” AccordionsPlease visit our web site, www.castiglioneaccordions.comClick on Roland and then lookand listen to the Audio-Visualdemonstration of the instrument.Importers and ExportersFeaturing Castiglione, Beltuna,Scandalli, Guerrini, Excelsior, Dallapé,Tyrolean and moreAll types of accordions - piano,diatonic, chromatic buttonNew and Used - MIDI and ElectronicsBuy - Sell - Trade - Repair - Tunejohncast@bignet.nethttp://www.castiglioneaccordions.comPhone: (586) 755-6050Fax (586) 755-6339fall Quarter 2012 21

Northwest Accordion NewsStolen Accordions in Northern IrelandSummary from BBC NewsKen Hopkins of County Down, Northern Ireland isreported to have one of the largest collections of accordionsin the world. August 4, he was contacted byindividuals saying that they were interested in purchasingan instrument for a grandfather. After their meeting inBelfast, Mr. Hopkins returned to his home to find that hismotor home had been fi lled with at least 30 accordionsfrom his collection along with other items from his home.“Those accordions were quite rare and quite valuable.They were the cream of my collection and I thinkthey might have been stolen to order. Some of themwere one-offs, made for certain people,” said Hopkins.Although the 1950s accordions were stolen inCounty Down, police believe the instruments could beoffered for sale anywhere in Northern Ireland or furtherafi eld.A police spokesperson said: “These items are rareand specialized. They are not the sort of thing you wouldnormally see in a pawn shop or being offered for saledoor to door or even on web sites. You would not pay acouple of hundred pounds for an instrument like this andanyone who wanted one knows what they are lookingfor and knows a reputable seller.”“We would appeal to anyone who has informationon the whereabouts of these instruments, or is offeredsomething similar for sale in suspicious circumstances,to contact police.”Police believe the Fiat Ducato white six-berth motorhome, registration W91 PVM, may have been driven outof Northern Ireland.22Day of the AccordionFebruary 23, 2013Crossroads MallBellevue, WAFall Quarter 2012AAA Festival in BaltimoreThe 74th AAA Festival, held at the Sheraton CityCenter, Baltimore, Maryland, from July 11-15, was asuccessful event, enjoyed by many accordionists andaccordion enthusiasts from all over the world. The AAAFestival enjoyed extensive TV, radio, and newspapercoverage before and during the weekend.A page of photos is online: 2012_AAAPhotosCongratulations to the Winners of the followingcategories:Albert Manginelli - 1st place US Virtuoso SoloQuinn Collins - 2nd place US Virtuoso SoloChris Gorton - 2nd place US Piano AccordionCompetitionQuinn Collins - 3rd place US Piano AccordionCompetitionRachel Quirbach - 1st place Maddalena Belfi oreEntertainment Category for Female AccordionistsChristopher Gorton - 1st place Digital AccordionCompetitionUnique to accordion festivals, the second YouthInvolvement Program was held, conducted by DonGerundo. It featured young accordionists between theages of 13 and 25, paired with young Baltimore musicianswho played saxophone, trombone and bass.The jazz ensemble performed at the Saturday AwardsConcert (picture left).The AAA Festival featured many accordionists performingsolos, in combos, with other instruments, andwith singers. The event was a true display of the greatversatility of the accordion.The festival coordinators were Linda Soley Reed,AAA President; Frank Busso Sr., AAA 1st Vice Presidentand Public Relations/Festival Coordinator; Mary Tokarski,2012 AAA Contest Chariman and Junior Festival Orchestraconductor; and Marilyn O’Neil Youth InvolvementProgram Coordinator. Their excellent organizationalefforts resulting in an event enjoyed by all, that sets thestage for the 75th AAA Festival to be held in New YorkCity August 14-18, 2013.Performers during the AAA Festival included: CodyMcSherry, Michael and Amanda Parziale, Robert andRocio Ford, The Connecticut Accordion Orchestra conductedby Linda Soley Reed, Joy Bechter, Joe McKesson,Dr.Robert Young McMahan, Joe Zale, VladimirMollov, Annie Mollova, Dallas Vietty, Ben West, WilliamTrigg, Tatiana Semichastnaya, Steve Albini, Stas Venglevski,Dick Morarity, Mary Tokarski , Manny Bobenrieth,John Simkus, and Emily Geller.Performing ensembles included: The PotomacEnsemble, Busso Festival Orchestra, The ConnecticutAccordion Orchestra conducted by Linda Soley Reed,Alamo Angels Festival Orchestra, Junior Festival Or-

Northwest Accordion Newschestra, and the AAA 2012 Festival Orchestra conductedby Stas Venglevski.Attendees at the Saturday Night Gala Banquetheard the Festival Orchestra and the United States ArmyStrolling Strings (picture below) under the direction ofSergeant Major Manny Bobenreith (accordion) featuringvocalists from The United States Army Band.Workshop Presenters included: Mary Tokarski,Linda Warren, Don Gerundo, Dr. Robert Young McMahan,Mary Kathryn Archuleta, Paul Ramunni, Dr. MarionJacobsen, Dallas Vietty and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues.The large exhibition room gave festival attendeesthe opportunity to hear and see a variety of accordions,music and gift items including:Accordions USA (Alex and Lillianna Chudolij),Alessandrini, Deffner Music Publications (Frank BussoJr), Music Magic USA (Alex and Lillianna Chudolij), OttavianelliAccordions Factory, Pancordion (Frank BussoJr), Pigini (Frank Busso Jr), Roland (Music Magic USA,Steve Albini, Tatiana Semichastnaya), Scandalli (MusicMagic USA), Titano (Frank Busso Jr), Victoria Accordions(Elke Ahrenholz), SqueezinArt (Joan and DanGrauman), The New England Accordion Museum (PaulRamunni), Petosa Accordions (Tony Lovello), Giulietti,Brandoni and Paolo Soprani (Music Magic USA).Judges of the competitions included: BeverlyRoberts Curnow, Dr. Robert Young McMahan, AlTerzo,Manny Bobenrieth,Don Gerundo, Frank Busso,Jr., Frank Busso, Sam Falcetti, and Rita Davidson.It was wonderful to see the camaraderie among accordionistsof all ages, especially the connections madeby the young accordionists with the young Baltimoremusicians. Many of them said that as a result of beinginvolved in the AAA Festivals, they intend to learn theaccordion!A page of photos is online: 2012_AAAPhotosFor further details on the 2012 AAA Festival and the2013 AAA Festival in NYC, August 14-18th, 2013 email:aaa1938@aol.comHot PortatosBy Corrie ‘Chip’ SamsThe summer of 2012 has been one of many journeysfor The Portatos | Accordion Band. This started withthe Leavenworth International Accordion Celebrationin June. Their performance was marked with creativityand energy, earning them a second place trophy inthe band category.The next weeks were crammed with daily practicefor their concert at Riverfront Park in Spokane on July4th and then at the River Park Square Mall on July 6th.Two days later, they were off for Kimberly B.C. A weekof intense practice, competition, and serious fun began.The Kimberly International Old Time AccordionCompetition saw The Portatos learn to dance, amongother things. They came in a close second in the bandcategory, only missing fi rst by .025 of a point. They did,however, walk away with the Showmanship Award.The day after their return from Canada, The Portatoshad the honor of opening the Alex Meixner concert inSpokane on July 16 and were privileged to share thestage with him several times that evening. With characteristicAlex Meixner energy, he even required themto polka on stage!Two days later, The Portatos were again on theroad. Destination: Victoria BC. The Victoria AccordionCelebration was waiting. Competitions were done by5:00 on Friday. The following day, The Portatos werethrilled to perform at the Market Square in downtownVictoria, invited by the Victoria Accordion Celebration.When all was said and done, The Portatos took homea 1st place trophy for the Band Category.The summer isn’t over yet. August 10 will see ThePortatos performing at the Wallace Accordion Festival.August 28th, they will be sharing a stage with Tango Volcadoto help raise funds for the World Trophy AccordionCompetitions in October. They will also be performingat the Spokane Interstate Fair, the Spokane Fall FolkFestival, and First Night Spokane. It will be a seasonto remember.You can fi nd the Portatos online at www.portatos.com and on Facebook.fall Quarter 2012 23

Northwest Accordion NewsThe Works ofJoe Morelli –Accordionist,TeacherTARGET: FOCUS –Exploring Practise$24 .00 CDNArrangements by Joe MorelliAbschied Von Der Heimat (M/E) $5.50Anema E Core – Trio (E/M) $14.00Beautiful Dreamer (E) $3.00Borrasque – Waltz (M) $5.50Besame Mucho (M/D) $5.50Kom Mädel, Tanz-Waltz(M) $5.50Che Sera, Sera (E) $3.50Don’t Fence Me In (E/M) $5.50Elana, Waltz (M/E) $5.50Eccentricity – Swing Waltz (D/M) $6.50My Father – Ethnic Waltz (E) $3.50Glory of Love (M) $4.00It Had to Be You (E/M) $4.00Kentucky Waltz (M/E) $5.00La Mer (E) $3.30La Vie En Rose (E) $3.50Moon River (E) $4.00Münchner Kindl – Waltz (M/E) $5.50Mademoiselle de Paris(Quartet)............................ $15.00New York, New York (M/D) $5.50Never on Sunday (M) $5.50Paulette- study: bass harmony (D) $3.50Papirossen (Russian) (E) $3.50Please Release Me (M) $4.00Quisaz, Quisaz (M) $4.50Satin Doll (M/D) $5.50Save the Last Waltz for Me (E) $3.50Send me the Pillow that You Dream On(M/D) ………………………………….. $5.00Sentimental Journey (D/M) $5.50Silent Night (modern harmony) (E/M) $3.50Skihutte – Schottische (M/E) $4.50Sunrise, Sunset (M/D) $5.50Some Day my Prince Will Come (M/E)$4.50Somewhere Over the Rainbow (D) $6.00Tango of the Roses (M/D) $6.00Tennesse Waltz (E/M) $5.00Tennesse Waltz Duet) (M) $8.00Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round… (E/M) $5.50Toselli’s Serenade (M/E) $4.50Two Shades of Blue (E) $4.00Original Compositions by Joe MorelliWaltz, Opus 24 (E) $4.00Minuet in G (E/M) $4.00Lullaby for Thea (M/E) $4.00Quarter Round (M/E) $4.00Gavotte (M) $5.00Etude No. 1 (M) $4.00Nelda’s Dream (D/M) $5.50Dixieland Rag (E/M) $4.00Mama Helena (D) $6.50Tango Yasmine (D) $6.50Valse Capriccio, concert waltz (D) $6.00Samba Baby (D) $6.00Carnival in Rio, Samba (D/M) $6.00The Butterfly, Concert Waltz (D) $6.50River Cinnabar, Waltz ballade(M/D) $5.00Cassie’s Caper, Schottische (M/D) $5.00Dance Lady Dance, Schottische (M/D) $5.00PolkasFirefly (D/M) $5.50Moth in the Closet (D/M) $5.75Happy Birthday (D/M) $5.50Peppermint Kirsch (D) $5.75Hops & Barley (D) $5.75Strip the Triplets (D) $5.50Topsy Turvey (D/M) $5.50WaltzesSwiss Fondue (M/D) $5.75Eiswein (M/D) $5.50Red Hearts-White Lace,(Valentine Waltz) (M/D) …. $5.75A Linden Blossom Fell (M) $5.75DuetsTussy Polka, complete (D) $11.00Each, 1 st or 2 nd accordion $5.50Kitty Whiskers, polka complete (M) $10.00Each, 1 st or 2 nd accordion $5.50Silver Slippers, Schottische (M) $10.00Each part $5.00The Bavarian Mouse Ball, Waltz (M) $10.00Each Part $5.00Cuckoo ‘Round the Clock, polka $7.00-complete, no separate parts (M/D)Original Compositions by Joe MorelliAccordion Rag (E/M) $4.00Barn Burner - Polka (M) $6.00Café Italiano Bright Waltz (M) $6.00Café Rendezvous Waltz (M) $6.00Cajun Spice (M/E) $5.50The Chase – Etude (M) $3.50Dreams of a Dance – Waltz (M) $5.50February Blues – Rag (D) $6.00Frühling – Ethnic Waltz (M/D) $6.00Holiday in Mexico – Waltz (M/E) $5.50Holiday in Rome – Fox Trot (M) $5.50Hills of Kananaskis – Ethnic Waltz (M) $5.50Hop Scotch – Schottische, Solo (M) $5.50Hop Scotch – Schottische, Duet (M) $11.00Images (M) $5.50My Isle of Emerald Green (M) $6.00Minuet in F, Solo (D/M) $5.50Minuet in F, Duet (D/M) $11.00Minuet in A (D/M) $5.50Out West (M) $5.50Postcard from Zurich- Ethnic Waltz (M) $5.50Pequino – Cha Cha (M) $4.00Paris After Dark 11 pg. (D) $15.00Samba Paradiso (D/M) $6.00Schottische for Three (D/M) $5.50Swede Dreams – Mazurka (D/M) $5.50Très Bien – Waltz Musette (D/M) $6.00Vienna Dreams, Ethnic Waltz (M) $5.50Village Fest, Schottische (M/D) $5.50Wedding Bells, Schottische (M/D) $5.50Approximate degree of difficulty:(D) Difficult(M) Medium difficult(E) EasyTo purchase sheetmusic, contact:Mrs. T. Morellimorellit@telus.netCoupe Mondiale 2013The BC Accordion Society, a non-profit society, wasfounded in early 2010 in the Victoria B.C. Their missionis to promote the beauty of the accordion throughconcerts, workshops, master classes and competitions.Aleksander Milojevic is the president of the BC AccordionSociety, conductor of the BC Accordion Orchestra. Heis a graduate of the Tchaikovsky Music Academy with aMaster of Fine Arts degree.In 2010, the Society took over the responsibility forVictoria Accordion Festival, establishing at the sametime an international accordion competition, for the fi rsttime in this part of Canada. The society also createdthe BC Accordion Orchestra. Aleksander Milojevic is thepresident of the BC Accordion Society, conductor of theBC Accordion Orchestra, and organizer of the event. Heis a graduate of the Tchaikovsky Music Academy with aMaster of Fine Arts degree.Their most important achievement so far, has beenestablishing the accordion program at Camosun Collegein Victoria. Currently, this is the only place in Canada,outside Toronto, where students can study accordionand obtain an offi cial degree.The BC Accordion Society is a Voting Member forCIA (Confederation Internationale des Accordeonistes)and as such represent Canada in all activities organizedby the biggest accordion organization in the world. Inrecognition for everything they have been doing in thelast several years, they were given the honor to hostthe 66th Coupe Mondiale 2013 in Victoria, fi rst ever inCanada. The Coupe Mondiale will be held from August19-26, 2013.For further information:BC ACCORDION SOCIETYTel: 778 433 8700e-mail: contact@bcaccordion.caWANTED!Photos, Articles, Original Music!When you go to an Accordion Event - take picturesand write about it! You’re not a writer? Write whatyou can and we’ll do the editing!Send to:NWAS, 5102 NE 121st Ave. Unit 12Vancouver, WA 98682Or Email: judith@ameshomeplace.com24Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion Newsfall Quarter 2012 25

Northwest Accordion NewsBy the Way –From Doris OsgoodCongratulations to two young accordionists. LoganStephens of Poulson, MT is the winner of the LeavenworthOpen 2012. Alicia Baker of Milwaukie, ORis the 2012 Happy Hans winner in Kimberley, BC.New book released of interest to accordionists everywhere.Dr. Lynda Griffi th writes, “ I am pleased toannounce that my book Playing Well, Prevention andBiomechanics of Musician Injuries is fi nally fi nishedand available online. I hope you will have interest inwhat I have presented. I launched the book at Accordionistsand Teachers Guild this past week andit was very well received. Please take a look at it byclicking on the link below and feel free to forward thisto all your accordionist friends, teachers and medicalpractitioners who treat musician injuries.”Playing Well, Prevention and Biomechanics of MusicianInjuriesWith a Focus on Accordionists, Concertinists andBandoneonistswww.playingwellbook.orgI hope that younoticed that theautumn socialin Forest Grovewill be a bit differentthis year.First, the dateis changed!We will meetOctober 14rather than the4 th Sunday.Also, there willbe a specialperformance byAlicia Bakerat 3:45 PM. Itshould be a great afternoon and I hope that many ofyou will be able to join us in Forest Grove in October.NWAS member Dianne Lansing of Caldwell, IDwrites that she and others had the fi rst southernIdaho accordion gathering August 18, 2 – 4 PM at theFirehouse Café in Kuna, ID. Since this was the fi rstmeeting, she was uncertain about what the futuremay be. Anyway, she was excited. For future reference,Dianne’s contact information is: slansing757@gmail.com We hope that our friends in Idaho will havemuch success and that their new “club” will fl ourish.We’re glad to report that classical accordionist, HoraceLazzari of Walla Walla, WA is much improved.He’d had some serious health issues. It was a stressfultime for both Horace and Jeannette; they are onthe mend.Katherine Allen, Wil Knoop, Helen Purkerson, and Paul BriaSome members of the Tualatin Valley Accordionistsprovided entertainment for a neighborhood associationpicnic in Columbia City, OR again this July. Fortheir efforts, the association made a generous donationto the Chester Pietka Scholarship Fund.As part of the renowned Earshot Jazz Festival 2012in Seattle,Murl Allen Sanders Quartet with Saxophonist extraordinaire,Warren Rand, will performSaturday November 3, 2012, 7:30pmTula's restaurant 2214 - 2nd Ave. Seattle, WA 206-443-4221 reservations recommended.Our favorite Scot, Gary Blair had a very busy July.His accordion studio is very busy and he also had numerousplaying engagements. He came to the UnitedStates late in the month and performed at the GoldenState Accordion Club in Vacaville and also the AccordionClub in Escalon, CA. Gary had an incredibleexperience in France. He played 3 concerts: Villerupt,Guenange, and Homecourt. Regrettably, the web sitewith photos and reviews is in French. If you are inclined,check it out. www.accordeon-club-lorrain.com26Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion NewsRemembering Ralph StrickerA bit of musical trivia: At the height of her chart popularityin the late '50s and early '60s, Connie Franciswas unique as a female recording artist, amassingrecord sales equal to or surpassing those of many ofher male contemporaries. Ultimately, she branchedinto other styles of music -- big band, country, ethnic,and more. She still challenges Madonna as thebiggest-selling female recording artist of all time.Like Madonna, Concetta Rosemarie Franconerocame from an Italian-American background. Francisstarted her music career at three, playing an accordionbought for her by her contractor father, George.Her father's dream was not for his daughter to becomea star, but for Francis to become independentof men as an adult with her own accordion school ofmusic. At age ten, she was accepted on Startime, aNew York City television show that featured talentedchild singers and performers. The show had no oneelse who played an accordion. Its host, legendary TVtalent scout Arthur Godfrey, had diffi culty pronouncingher name and suggested something "easy andIrish," which turned into Francis. After three weekson Startime, the show's producer and Francis' wouldbemanager advised her to dump the accordion andconcentrate on singing! Francis performed weekly onStartime for four years.The Alpenfest is returning to Wallowa County Oregonin September. September’s revival will includeevents there and in the towns of Enterprise andJoseph. The event will have music, dancing, blowingthe Alpenhorn, Swiss/Bavarian cuisine, handmadebratwurst and mugs of special Bavarian beer craftedby Terminal Gravity Brewery in Enterprise. Also therewill be yodeling, crafts and a screening of “The Soundof Music”. I can’t think of a more beautiful place tobe in early autumn. For information check: oregonalpenfest.blogspot.comor call Wolf @ 541-432-8215.September 27 – 30.It’s so exciting to know that a prestigious, internationalaccordion competition will be held in Spokane, Wash-We mourn the passing of another Accordion friendand master musician. Mr. Ralph Stricker died on July 20at the age of 81. Ralph was a noted musician, teacherand jazz artist. He was the founder of the East BrunswickAcademy of Music that had more than 600 accordionstudents weekly. He studied with such renownedmusicians as Alfred D’Auberge, Andrei Sobolsky andBernard Pfeiffer. In addition to teaching, Ralph alsoperformed with his own combos, working the top clubsin New York, New Jersey and Florida. He is most knownfor his outstanding benchmark book “Jazz Theory andImprovisation Studies for Accordion”. Ralph was also acontributor of his compositions to our news magazine.The Northwest Accordion Society offers sincerecondolences to his daughter, Kathie, and her family.ington in October. Under the leadership of PatriciaBartell the Trophy Mondiale will be held for the fi rsttime in the United States. Patricia has a lot of responsibilityand is charged with raising a daunting amountof money for the event. Check www.worldtrophyaccordion.orgRemember to submit your articles and other informationto our magazine address: NWAS News 5102 NE121 st Ave Unit 12, Vancouver, WA 98682Check the web site, www.nwasnews.com for currentevents and updates.fall Quarter 2012 27

Northwest Accordion News28“Fantasy for Accordion” A New Compositionfor Stas Venglevskiby Rita DavidsonComposer David Bohn is embarking on a new musicalproject through Kickstarter, to create a new compositionfor renowned accordionist, teacher, and conductor,StasVemglevski David wants to compose a piece forStas for a performance in either 2012 or 2013. It will beof 15 to 20 minutes duration for solo accordionist withoutany other performers. The composition may include theuse of Stas’ voice, if a text considered suitable by bothDavid and Stas can be found. The composition will bea single continuous movement, divided into sections ofcontrasting character, much as Ravel’s “Concerto in D“(for the left hand).The title for the composition is “Fantasy”, withan appropriate subtitle to be chosen in the course ofcomposition. The piece will be dedicated to Stas. Theproject will only be funded if at least $400 is pledged byAugust 24, 2012.Kickstarter is the world’s largest funding platform forcreative projects. Every project is independently crafted,put to all-or-nothing funding, and supported by friends,fans, and the public in return for rewards. Every projectcreator sets their project’s funding goal and deadline.If the project succeeds in reaching its funding goal allbackers’ credit cards are charged when time expires. IfFall Quarter 2012the project falls short no one is charged.Since its launch in April 2009, more than 24,000 creativeprojects have been successfully funded by peoplefrom around the world. People come to Kickstarter tobuild community around their projects. It’s inspiring tobe supported by people you know, and amazing to connectwith strangers who are discovering your ideas forthe fi rst time.A native of Wisconsin, David Bohn received degreesin composition from the University of Wisconsin,University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and the Universityof Illinois. His primary composition teachers were JoelNaumann, Yehuda Yannay, and William Brooks. He hastaught theory at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukeeand the University of Illinois and theory, history and worldmusic classes at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside.David Bohn currently resides in West Allis, Wisconsinand is the organist and choir director at St. John’sEvangelical Lutheran Church in West Milwaukee. Heis President of the Wisconsin Alliance for Composers,Vice President of the Wisconsin Chapter of the OrganHistorical Society, and edits the newsletters of bothorganizations.The project will be funded by individual backers inamounts ranging from $5.00 and up. If you pledge $5or more, your name will be mentioned in the credits onthe score. If you pledge $10 or more, your name will bementioned in the credits on the score, plus a postcardinviting you to the premiere, once the date is set. For$20 or more your name is mentioned in the credits onthe score, a postcard inviting you to the premiere, oncethe date is set, plus an mp3 of the premiere. For $30 ormore, your name is entioned in the credits on the score,a postcard inviting you to the premiere, once the date isset, plus an CD of the premiere. For $50 or more, Yourname mentioned in the credits on the score, a postcardinviting you to the premiere, once the date is set, a CDof the premiere, plus a personalized, autographed copyof the fi nished score.For further information:DBohn@ticon.net

Northwest Accordion NewsIntroducing the new MurlStrap Accordion Back Strap$45.004 waist sizes Small 26 30 Medium 32 - 40 Large 42 50 XL 50 plusMade in the USA of 100% acrylic nylon with adjustable VelcroA design of Quality & Comfort easy to put on and take offDual feature of the MurlStrap,wear it in front to help supportyour travel gig bagfall Quarter 2012 29

Northwest Accordion NewsAccords1st Place Band Trophy with Naomi HarrisAlicia Baker and MIchael Bridge30Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion NewsSPOKANE ACCORDION ENSEMBLENEWSThe Importance of PracticingPerformancesBy Andy MirkovichSpokane Accordion Ensemble members who recently competedin the ensemble category in Victoria B.C. From left to right:President Eileen Webber, Kathleen Falco, Cheryl McGinley,Henry Peden, Conductor Beverley Fess, Gordon Alexander,Claudia Machtmes, and Frank Bruckner.It is the time of year that many accordionists fi nallyget to perform, in either competition or adjudication,a musical piece into which they have invested a substantialamount of practice time so as to make it soundfl awless and beautiful.One important thing that very few will do, however,is to invest any time into practicing their performance.A performance doesn’t start with the fi rst note thatyou play; it starts with the fi rst step that you take ontothat performing stage. When the artist takes that fi rststep on the stage he or she should be well groomed anddressed impeccably. It starts with a smile that says, “Iam glad to be here, I am glad that you are here and Ihave prepared something for you that I know that youare going to enjoy.” Practice doing that.Practice performing your piece in front of a mirror.Let yourself see what you audience is going to see andtest whether or not you like the way you look to youraudience. Are you smiling? Do you look confi dant? Ifyou are sitting, are you sitting in an attractive position?If you cannot directly look at yourself in the mirror whileyou are playing, you won’t be able to look directly atyour audience either and thereby miss an all importantconnection.When you fi nish, let facial and body movementsexpress joy and gratitude for the opportunity to performfor a welcoming and appreciative audience. Walk offthe stage in an unrushed and dignifi ed manner.These things don’t happen by chance. You need tobe aware and you need to practice them. If you do youwill improve the quality of your performance far beyondwhat you might currently imagine.Change of Address?Please contact NWAS when you have a change ofaddress - email judith@ameshomeplace.com or senda note to NWAS, 5102 NE 121st Ave. Unit 12, Vancouver,WA 98682The ensemble held its annual Spring Concert “Dancing Around The World “ at St. Mark’s LutheranChurch in Spokane on June 5th. We featured dancerswith some of our music selections: Rock Around TheClock ( with dancers Art Thoma and Heidi Dullanty), IrishWasher Woman/ Paddy Walk ( featuring Celtic dancerAvery Towey) and Turkey In The Straw ( with our ownensemble member Angie Smith and her clogging partnerCarolyn Dixon).We were excited to have Ilmar Kuljus, the founderof The Spokane Ensemble, and Sam Thomas join usfor this concert. We were conducted by Beverley Fess,who once again flew down from Calgary Alberta to makeour concert possible. Sam gave a solo performance ofMalaguena, and Beverley treated us to a solo performanceof Carnival of Venice. It was a very successfulfun concert with a lively appreciative audience.Several of our members with Conductor BeverleyFess attended the Victoria Accordion Festival & CompetitionJuly 19 - 22, 2012 (see above photo). This was afi rst for us, as our group had not entered a competitionbefore. We took 2nd place and received a certifi cate,some prize money and good comments from the judgesand other competitors. Not all of our members wereable to come due to prior commitments. Our newestmember Frank Bruckner played here for the fi rst timeas a member of the ensemble. He is a student of ourPresident, 1st chair and weekly director Eileen Webber,who also teaches accordion in the Spokane area.We all had a fantastic fun time in Victoria. The festivalorganizers were gracious, helpful and very friendly.The evening concerts with Alexander Sevastian, TrioVoronezh, and The Quartetto Gelato were outstandingand well worth the time spent and distance traveled toattend this festival. The only down side was the vandalismto two of our members cars in the hotel parking lot.fall Quarter 2012 31

Northwest Accordion NewsKimberley International Olde Time Accordion Competitions 2012Popular 4 – (71 + Over)1. David Garner – Simcoe, ON2. Jens Pedersen – Leyhbridge, AB3. Rose Menzi – Abbotsford, BCPopular 3 – (51-70)1. Kathleen Grambsch – Vancouver,WA2. Lorna Reurink – Turin, AB3. Denis Bourdon – St Albert, ABPopular 2 – (13-48)1. William Lynch – Calgary, AB2. Yev Nosov – Spokane, WA3. Jamar Jensen – Medicine Hat, ABPopular 1 – (12+Under)1. Naomi Harris – Spokane, WA2. Kristen Owerko – Leduc, AB3. Email Haroldsen – Spokane, WALt Classical Ii (16 + Over)1. Yev Nosov – Spokane, WA2. Kathleen Grambsch – Vancouver,WA3. Jamar Jensen – Medicine Hat, ABLt Classical I (15+Under)1. Emmanuel Gasser – St Charles,ON2. Kristen Owerko – Leduc, AB3. Emil Harolsden – Spokane, WAJazz Open1. Emmanuel Gasser – St Charles,ON2. Naomi Harris – Spokane, WA3. William Lynch – Calgary, ABBands – Open1. Bellows And Bass2. The Portatos Accordion Band3. The Leduc ConnectionDiatonic – Open1. William Lynch – Calgary, AB2. George Jaegli – Leduc, AB3. Wolfgang Redies – Dawson Creek,BCDuets Junior – (15 + Under)321. Emmanuel Gasser/Sonya Hungerford2. Shauna Jensen/Luke Persson3. Emil Harolsden/Holden TubbsDuets Senior – (16+Over)1. Daniel & Jordan Layton2. Kurt Wismer & Yev Nosov3. Will Lynch & Kassie PattersonPrimary (10+Under)1. Wesley Tews – Coaldale, AB2. Emil Haroldsen – Spokane Valley,WA3. Adam Olsen – Surrey, BCElementary (12+Under)1. Ola Kawa – Edmonton, AB2. Shauna Jensen – Medicine Hat,AB3. Holden Tubbs – Spokane, WAJunior (15 + Under)1. Emmauel Gasser – St Charles,ON2. Robert Degoede – Mosseyrock,WA3. Tony Kawa – Edmonton, ABIntermediate – 19+ Under1. Emmauel Gasser – St Charles,ON2. Jordan Rody – Edominton, AB3. Jamar Jensen – Medicine Hat,ABSenior – (20-60)1. Diane Hagen – Portland, OR2. Denis Bourdon – St Albert, AB3. Julie Lussier-Houle – Cardston,ABBronze – (61-65)1. Clara Anderson – Salmon Arm2. Nyla Hirsch – Armstrong, BCSilver/Golden – (66-74)1. David Garner – Simcoe, ON2. Herb Hinterberger – Chilliwack,BCFall Quarter 2012Diamond – (75-77)1. Paul Kobasiuk – Leduc, AB2. Margaret Schuler – Southey,SK3. George Jaegli – Leduc, ABPlatinum – 78+ Over1. Jens Pedersen – Lethbridge,AB2. Lu Plumridge – Vernon, BC3. Phil Selinger – Calgary, ABJunior Showmanship – (19+Under)Emil Haroldsen – Spokane, WASenior Showmanship – (20 +Over)Diane Hagen – Portland, ORBand Showmanship – OpenThe Portatos Accordion BandYoungest CompetitorAdam Olsen – Surrey, BC (6Years Old)Mazoff Improv PrizeWilliam Lynch – Calgary, ABOlaf Sveen Memorial Award$200Tony KawaSharon Hann Memorial Award$200William LynchHappy Hans Open1. Alicia Baker – Milwaukie, OR2. Diane Hagen – Portland, OR3. Robert Degoede – Mosseyrock,WASpecial AwardsDick Griffi th

Northwest Accordion NewsTentative Schedule of Events forTrophée Mondial October 22–27, 2012October 22, 2012 – MondayAll day – Arrival of International guestsOctober 23, 2012 – Tuesday7:00 pm – Opening Ceremony and ConcertUSMC Color Guard Flag Ceremony with the SpokaneSymphony. World Premiere Concerto with accordionist,Grayson Masefi eld and the Spokane Symphony.Concert with Tango Volcados!October 24, 2012 – Wednesday9:00 am - 6:00 pm – Open Mic and tour of vendorsLocation: River Park Square Mall9:00 am – CMA Senior Trophée Mondial Round ILocation: Bing Crosby TheaterDescription: The candidates must perform in the orderof their choice- A Baroque work of their choice- A Melodic work of their choic- A Virtuosic work of their choice12:00 pm – Lunch break2:00 pm – CMA Junior Trophée Mondial Round ILocation: Bing Crosby TheaterDescription: The candidates must perform in the orderof their choice- A Baroque work of their choice- A Melodic work of their choics- A Virtuosic work of their choice6:00 pm – Dinner break7:30 pm – CMA Evening ConcertConcert with past winners of Trophée Mondial WorldChampions and selections performed by Jury membersand Delegates of the Confédération Mondiale del’AccordéonOctober 25, 2012 – Thursday9:00 am - 6:00 pm – Open Mic and tour of vendorsLocation: River Park Square Mall9:00 am – CMA U.S.A. National TrophyLocation: Bing Crosby TheaterDescription: Candidates perform one round freechoice classical program that must comprise of atleast one baroque work and at least one original workfor the accordion12:00 pm – Lunch Break2:00 pm – CMA Senior Trophée Mondial Round IILocation: Bing Crosby TheaterDescription: Candidates perform one complete originalclassical work for the accordion.5:30 pm – Dinner Break7:00 pm – CMA Senior Virtuoso Diatonic EntertainmentMusic Round IDescription: Senior Variety Diatonic – Candidatesperform own choice program that include pieces ofdifferent style and character with a focus on originalworks for Diatonic accordion.8:30 pm – CMA Senior Virtuoso Entertainment MusicRound IDescription: Senior Variety – Candidates perform ownchoice program of contrasting styles and character, ie.Tango, Musette, Polka, Ballad, Jazz, etc.October 26, 2012 – Friday9:00 am - 6:00 pm – Open Mic and tour of vendorsLocation: River Park Square Mall8:30 am – CMA Junior Trophée Mondial Round IILocation: Bing Crosby TheaterDescription: Candidates perform one free classicalprogram that consists one original classical work foraccordion12:00 pm – Lunch Break2:00 pm – CMA Junior Virtuoso Diatonic EntertainmentMusic Round ILocation: Bing Crosby TheaterDescription: Senior Variety Diatonic – Candidatesperform their own choice program that include piecesof different style and character with a focus on originalworks for Diatonic accordion3:30 pm – CMA Junior Virtuoso Entertainment MusicRound ILocation: Bing Crosby TheaterDescription: Senior Variety – Candidates perform ownchoice program of contrasting styles and character, ie.Tango, Musette, Polka, Jazz etc6:00 pm – Dinner Break7:30 pm – CMA Senior Virtuoso Diatonic EntertainmentMusic Round IIDescription: Senior Variety Diatonic – Candidatesadmitted to 2nd roundperform their own choice program that include piecesof different style and character with a focus on originalworks for the Diatonic accordion8:30 pm – CMA Senior Virtuoso Entertainment MusicRound IIDescription: Senior Variety – Candidates admitted tothe 2nd round perform their own choice program ofcontrasting styles and character, ie. Tango, Musette,Polka, Ballad, Jazz, etcfall Quarter 2012 33

Northwest Accordion NewsOctober 27, 2012 – Saturday9:00-6:00 – Open Mic and tour of vendorsLocation: River Park Square Mall9:00 am – CMA Senior Trophée Mondial Round 3Location: Bing Crosby TheatreDescription: Candidates admitted to the 3rd round willperform a free choice classical program that includesat least one original piece for theaccordion and one polyphonic work12:00 pm – Lunch Break1:30 pm – Presentation of “Simply Music for Accordion”Location: Bing Crosby TheaterDescription: Neil Moore, CEO and Founder of SimplyMusic, will present the new and remarkable methodfor Accordion. An Australian-developed program thathas beginning students (children, teens, adults, andseniors) playing great sounding pop, blues, classical,and accompaniment pieces immediately from theirvery fi rst lessons2:30 pm – Accordion Concert for the KIDSLocation: Bing Crosby TheaterDescription: Elementary and Middle Schools willgather to hear accordionists from around the world.This will create an opportunity to expose the nextgeneration to the world of accordions and the styles ofmusic available.3:30 - 5:30 pm – C.M.A. congress meeting5:30 pm – CMA 2012 Trophée Mondial World AccordionChampionships Awards CeremonyLocation: Bing Crosby Theater- Presentation of the 2012 Trophée Mondial Trophies& Prizes- Performances by 1st prize winners8:00 pm – American Dance and Celebration with TuxedoJunction Big BandLocation: Davenport Hotel: Grand Pennington BallroomOctober 28, 2012 – SundayDeparture Daywww.giuliettiusa.com34Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion News18 November 2012Sunday 2:00 PMGuest performance by Seattle Native“King of Music & Comedy” CORKY BENNETTTickets sales online at www.cbproductions.netToll-free ticket sales 1-(855) 266-9847fall Quarter 2012 35

Northwest Accordion NewsImprovising Chords (part 1 of 4)By Gary Dahl36Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion NewsHow I Got Started On The AccordionBy Charlie BrownOne 1953 summer day in San Pedro, California,there was a knock at our front door. It was a salesmanasking if anyone in the household would like to play theaccordion. I was 7 years old at the time and I yelledout “I do!”. My mom and dad said it would be okay if Ipromised to practice. But, the San Pedro Music Centerhad rules. They were not interested in selling accordionsto just anyone. After 10 weeks of renting the accordionand taking lessons, a test was required. If you passedthe test, you could go on for 6 more months. If you didnot pass the test, you would be required to leave and notcome back. In 6 months another test was required withthe same results. And again in 1 year another test wasrequired. However, this test was a little different. Thistest was a recital at the Orange County Auditorium infront of 1,000 people. The same results were required.I was 8 years old at the time of my recital and my rentedaccordion was almost as big as I was. I passed the testand my parents bought me my very fi rst accordion, aSonola. I practiced constantly. I wanted to be the bestaccordion player. I won many talent contests and playedat almost all of the school events. We moved to theMonterey area, Seaside, California in 1957 and I begantaking lessons at the ABC Music Center in Monterey fromMarty Artellan. He was a great teacher. He was alsothe Director of Marty’s Accordionaires, a concert andmarching accordion band. I joined the band right away.We took fi rst place in every single parade we entered.We also played indoor and outdoor concerts and playedon radio and television. I became the Assistant Directora few years later and began teaching accordion andmusic theory at the Music Center.I turned Professional at the ripe old age of 15 yearswhen my younger brother, George, a drummer, and Iaccepted our fi rst paid gig as: “The Brown Brothers”.I’ve never stopped playing the accordion since then.In 1968, I helped create a very successful band calledThe Conte Four. We cut 2 albums, played for 2 UnitedStates Presidents, headlined at the Top of the Wheelat Harvey’s Casino, Lake Tahoe for 8 years, played forthe Sahara Tahoe Hotel’s Annual Open Golf TournamentBanquet for 6 years, we were the House Band atthe Beach Club in Pebble Beach for over 15 years andwe were the most successful 4 piece band in CentralCalifornia for 26 years. We formally retired the band in1986 but were pulled out of retirement to play for specialevents in Monterey for 8 more years.In 1962 we travelled to Munich Germany. My dadwas military so my brother and I attended a military highschool for 2 1/2 years. We put a band together therecalled “The Versatiles” and played at the AYA and all ofthe school events.We played all over Germany. In 1963 I went to theExcelsior Accordion Factory in Castelfi dardo, Italy tohave a custom Excelsior Accordion made for me. Theytook me on a tour of the factory and showed me howeverything would be hand made....................WOW !!!Then, I met Rose, a junior at Munich American HighSchool. I was a senior.My wife, Rose, and I and 2 sons moved here to GigHarbor, Washington from Salinas, California on January2, 1987. Two years later, our oldest daughter and herhusband moved here. In our 45 years of marriage, shehas always supported my music career. We have 4children; 2 boys and 2 girls with boy and girl twins in themiddle, 5 grand daughters, 1 grandson and a 3 leggedrescue pitbull named Angel.I’ve been performing in the Washington, Oregonand Nevada areas for over 25years and am still very busy playing the accordion,keyboard and singing as a solo entertainer. I’m currentlyworking on a Website, a CD and a Music Video. As longas my fi ngers can move, I’ll keep on playing.Life as an accordionist has always been good.I am very blessed. And, God really does love accordionplayers.Charlie BrownGig Harbor, WALeavenworth International AccordionCelebration 2013A Music Festival for the entire familyJoin us in Leavenworth, WashingtonJune 20-23, 2013For the love of the accordionfall Quarter 2012 37

Northwest Accordion NewsMore Leavenworth Photos!Mike & Margie AmanJuan Barco andBonnie BirchTatianaSemichasnayaJelena MilojevicJorgen and Lena SundeqvistCory Tideman and Max KylonenHeidi Forchemer leads the Parade38Rick Hatley leads Gazebo BandFall Quarter 2012Eileen Webber and Jeannie Berg

Northwest Accordion NewsAleks Milojevic, conductor, and the BC Accordion Orchestra62nd Trophée Mondial –a Prestigious InternationalAccordion ChampionshipSPOKANE, WASHINGTONU.S.A.October 23-27, 2012Emil Haroldsen takes the batonTickets are available online: www.worldtrophyaccordion.org/TicketsHotels: Davenport Tower Hotel &Ruby HotelOpening Ceremony and Concert:Martin Woldson Fox TheaterCompetition Venue: Bing CrosbyTheaterOpen Mic Venue:River Park Square Mall fall Quarter 2012 39

Northwest Accordion NewsAccordion Events CalendarBy Doris Osgooddorisosgood@frontier.comNORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY SOCIALSSEATTLE, WA2 nd Monday monthly: Sept. 10 WSSC, Oct. 8 WSSC, Nov.12 Swedish CC, Dec. 10 WSSC Contact: John Giuliani425-255-2121 or Birgit Ages 206-368-9720 Back up contact:Bonnie Birch 206-622-4786. Music 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. *notechanges of venue in this issue.NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY SOCIALSTACOMA, WA2nd Thursday monthly: Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, Dec. 13Lutheran Church 121 st & Park Ave. across from PLU Library7:00 – 9:30 PM contact: Dick Myking 253-537-0136NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETY SOCIALSFOREST GROVE, OR4 th Sundays April and October. Forest Grove CommunityCenter, 2037 Douglas St. Forest Grove, OR. 1:30 PM –5:00 PM. Contact: Doris Osgood 503-357-0417.dorisosgood@frontier.com * October 14, 2012schedule change: Special guest, Alicia BakerACCORDION CLUB OF CENTRAL OREGONBEND, OR2 ND Saturday Monthly, noon – 2 PM Aspen Ridge RetirementHome 1010 NW Purcell Blvd, Bend Members provideentertainment one Sunday monthly also. Contacts: LillianJones, 541-536-1531 lajones716@yahoo.com or KarlKment, 541-548-0495 kgkment@aol.comACCORDION JAM IN SANDYSANDY, OR4 th Saturday monthly noon – 4 PM meet at Shorty’s CornerCafé 2 miles East of Sandy, OR on Hwy 26. Bring accordion,music, stand, and snack to share. Coffee provided. Allplayers welcome. Contact Andy Jorgensen 503-668-3917or 503-975-2380.ACCORDION CLUB OF ROSEBURGROSEBURG, OR3 rd Monday monthly 6:30, 553 Little Valley Rd. RoseburgPres. Karen Cordell 553 Little Valley Rd. Roseburg, OR97471 541-784-1911 beltunagirl@aol.comACCORDION CLUB OF VANCOUVERVANCOUVER, B.C.www.meetup.com/Accordion-Club-of-Vancouvercontact: Haike Kingma, haike@telus.netACCORDION INTERNATIONAL MUSIC SOCIETYSANTA BARBARA, CA2 nd Sunday monthly 1 – 3 PM Vale Verde Retirement Theatre900 Calle de los Amigos, Santa Barbara, CAAIMS P.O. Box 4511 Santa Barbara, CA 93140Info: Heinz Trick 805-685-2260www.santabarbaraaccordions.comBROOKINGS ACCORDION CLUBBROOKINGS, OR4th Sat. monthly 2-4 PM, Evergreen Federal S&L, 850Chetco Ave. Brookings, OR, Pres. Cami Meccia 541-469-807EASTSIDE JAZZBellevue, WA3 rd Tuesday monthly, Courtyard Marriott Hotel, 7:30 PMbeginning January 2012. Contact: Cooksie Kramer 425-828-9104EMERALD VALLEY ACCORDION CLUBEUGENE, OR1 st Monday monthly: 7:00 – 9:30 PM Veterans’ MemorialBldg. 1626 Willamette St. Secretary Linda Gunn 541-726-6330 cordiagunn@gmail.com V.P. Lou Marzano Socialtime 6 PM, business 6:45 PMFAIRBANKS ACCORDION CLUBFAIRBANKS, AKMondays weekly 6 – 8 PM Pioneers Home, open to all freereed instruments. Contact: Christine Upton 907-457-3392FIVE VALLEY ACCORDION ASSOCIATION MONTANA5VAA Jams are 1- 5 PMSept. 23 Sunrise Saloon, MissoulaOct. 14 Eagles, HamiltonOct. 28 Rustic Hut, FlorenceNov. 11 Jokers Wild, MissoulaDec. 9 Rustic Hut, FlorenceJan 13 Eagles, HamiltonJan. 27 Rustic Hut, FlorenceFeb. 10 Jokers Wild, MissoulaPres. Helen Brady 370-8452accordion.club@yahoo.comMontana – NW Accordion AssociationSept. 16 Eagles, KalispellOct. 7 Elks, PoulsonOct. 27 Eagles, KalispellNov. 4 Elks, PoulsonNov. 18 Eagles, KalispellDec. 2 Elks, PoulsonDec. 16 Eagles, PoulsonContact Roger Wagner 406- 862-2436all NWAA Jams 2 – 6 PMMontana – Great Falls Accordion PlayersSept. 16 ElksOct. 14 MooseNov. 11 EaglesDec. 16 ElksJan. 20 MooseJams are 1 PM – 5 PMContact Pat Sharp for info: 406-452-4546HUGO’S ACCORDION BANDMT. VERNON, WA2 nd and 4 th Monday monthly 2:00 - 4:00 PMPresident, Duane Stowe 16580 Peterson Rd Burlington,WA 98233 360-757-4826 dstowe@clearwire.net40Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion NewsHOUSTON BAY AREA ACCORDION CLUBHOUSTON, TX2 ND Wednesday monthly 5 – 9 PM Joe Brikha, PresJoeBrikha@gmail.com www.bayareaaccordionclub.comMEDFORD ACCORDION CLUBMEDFORD, OR4 th Monday monthly 7 - 9 PM: Central Point Senior Center123 N. 2nd St, Central Point, OR Jeannette Dewey, Pres.1029 SE Rogue Dr. Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-471-7455OKANAGAN ACCORDION CLUBKELOWNA, BCTuesdays weekly Sept. – May, Senior Center on RichterInfo contact: Rod Miller 250-317-9088, Lela Bournel.bourne@shaw.caROGUE RIVER ACCORDION CLUBROGUE RIVER, OR1st Wednesday monthly. 7 PM Council Chambers RogueRiver City Hall, 133 Broadway St. Rogue River, OR. Pres.Margot Turrell 206 Creekside Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-479-9409 yodelady@rascals.orgROSE CITY ACCORDION CLUBPORTLAND, OR3rd Saturday monthly. 1 – 5 PM Milwaukie Public SafetyBldg, SE 32nd & Harrison, Milwaukie, OR.* meeting in September 4 th Sat.(Sept.24)Pres. Steve Knapke 503-612-8381 email: squeezebox21@comcast.netwww.rosecityaccordionclub.orgSEQUIM ACCORDION SOCIALSEQUIM, WA2 nd Sunday, Odd numbered months, 1:00 – 4:00 PM SequimSenior Center next meeting September 11 contact:Jeannie Berg- jeannieberg@yahoo.comSIERRA NEVADA ACCORDIONSRENO, NVJohn Covarelli, Pres. 775-848-3777, sqeezebox2@gmail.comSPOKANE ACCORDION ENSEMBLESPOKANE, WAweekly rehearsals 6- 9 PM Eileen Webber, Pres. 509-290-6858 rick.eileenw@comcast.netSPOKANE AND INLAND NORTHWEST ACC. CLUBSPOKANE, WA4 th Monday monthly, 1520 W. 3 rd and Maple in Spokane, atthe Global Credit Union Bldg. Exit #280 off I-90.6 – 9 PM, $3. at the doorTUALATIN VALLEY ACCORDIONISTSFOREST GROVE, OR1 st Sat. monthly 10 AM – 1 PM Forest Grove Library Pacifi cAve. Contact: Paul and Judy Bria 503-591-0504 pjbria@aol.comYUMA ACCORDION CLUBYuma, AZevery Tuesday, November - March at the Yuma Food Bankat 2404 E 24th Street, Yuma, AZPresident, Coreen Bergholm @ coreen3686@aol.com orGinger Purdy @ gpurdy1940@yahoo.comVICTORIA ACCORDION CLUBVICTORIA, B.C. CANADA1 st Sunday Monthly 2:30 PM, Victoria Edelweiss Club108 Niagra St., James Bay District Victoria, BCContact: John 250-386-7282 or 250-477-3098BUTTON BOX CAMPS JULY AND SEPTfor information contact: Joseph Smiell Jr. 812 Bantry WayBenica, CA 94510COUPE MONDIALEAugust 21 – 25, Spoleto, ItalyACCORDION EXTRAVAGANZAEDMONTON, ALBERTA September 28 - 30, 2012www.edmontonaccordion.comINTERNATIONAL ACCORDION CONVENTIONLas Vegas, NV, Sept. 24 - 27 2012 Mardi Gras Style at theGold Coast Hotel, Las VegasUSA: 1-800-472-1695 outside USA: 1-801-486-1695paul@AccordionStars.comALPENFESTAlpenfest Sept. 27-30 Wallowa County, OR,Oregon's Little Switzerland Enterprise, Joseph and atWallowa Lake Details: oregonalpenfest.com or 541-432-0209.ACCORDION SOCIAL IN FOREST GROVE, OROctober 14, 2012 1:30 – 5 PM. Alicia Baker specialperformer at 3:45 PMTROPHY MONDIALEOctober 23 – 27, 2012 Spokane, WA Bing CrosbyTheatre www.worldtrophyaccordion.orgDAY OF THE ACCORDIONFebruary 23, 2013 Crossroads Mall Bellevue, WARCAC ACCORDION CAMP- SILVER FALLSCONFERENCE CENTER June 9 - 14, 2013 nearSublimity, OR. Camp treasurer: Marlene Meissner 503-463-9909 marlenem26@msn.comContinued on page 43The Chester Pietka Scholarships are availablefor young accordionists. Young people ages 18 andunder, taking lessons from a recognized teacher, orwishing to do so, may submit a written request forscholarship funds for the purpose of taking lessons.Requests are to be submitted to Doris Osgood, 3224 BSt., Forest Grove, OR 97116 or e-mail dorisosgood@frontier.com.In addition to giving personal information,students are to share their interest and their goals forplaying the accordion. These scholarships are opento the young people within the Pacifi c Northwest, notjust the greater Portland area.fall Quarter 2012 41

Northwest Accordion NewsEntertainers in the NorthwestSubmit your public performance schedules to Doris Osgood 3224 B StForest Grove, OR 97116 dorisosgood@frontier.comAlpiners USAwww.alpinerusa.com with Joe DomitrowichJuan Barco – BandContact: 23091 23rd Ave. W. Brier, WA 98036425-775-8150; cell 206-356-1878Corky BennettWednesdays at Polo Lounge, Fridays w/ 9 th St. BandReno Senior Center, Saturdays at Bavarian Worldwebsite: www.corkybennett.comemail: corky@corkybennett.com775-287-2050Bonnie Birchwebsite: bonniebirch.comFor scheduling information: write 1107 1st Ave.#1003 Seattle, WA 98101.206-622-4786, email: bonniebirch@msn.comChuck BergerAccordion Repair and Public PerformanceFor information call: 503-254-0996midimanchas@yahoo.comCharlie BrownContact: browncbrb@comcast.net hm 253-857-6557cell 253-376-5487Frank CalapristiWinter schedule at King Ludwig’s, Wed, Thurs. Sun.nights; tour groups as neededFor scheduling information write PO Box 1057Leavenworth, WA 98826 509-548-0155fcalapristi@msn.comGary DahlFor scheduling information write 509 Valley Ave. NE#5 Puyallup, WA 98372Phone/fax 253-770-9492garydahlmusic@msn.com; www.accordions.com/garydahl; www.beltuna.comTom Demski (Mr. Flash)For scheduling information write: 518 9th St. SWPuyallup, WA 98371 253-840-9277tomdemski@yahoo.comFolk Voice BandFor scheduling: Birgit Ages 206-368-9720 folkvoice@folkvoiceband.com; http://folkvoiceband.comHappy Hans’ Music Hans Rainer, Jr.Sept. 21 Maple Valley Oktoberfest 6:30 – 9:30 PMSept. 28 – 30 Berliner Pub Renton, WAOct. 5 -6, 12 – 13,19 – 20 Leavenworth OktoberfestOct. 14 Berliner Pub 3 – 7 PM Renton, WAOct. 21 Berliner Pub 3 – 7 PM Renton, WAOct. 26 Berliner Pub 6 – 10 PM Renton, WAOct. 27 German House O’fest 6 – 10 PM Seattle, WANov. 3 Berliner Pub 6 – 10 PM Renton, WANov. 10 Austria Club Winefest Lakewood, WA 7:30 –11:30 PMNov. 18 Berliner Pub 3 – 7 PMFor scheduling information write Hans Rainer, Jr.24613 231st Ave. SE Maple Valley, WA 98038425-413-6562 happyhans@comcast.net WWW.HAPPYHANSMUSIC.COMLittle Bohemian BandCheck web site for details.For scheduling contact: Gene Sadowsky541-990-3109email:littlebohemianband@comcast.net www.littlebohemianband.com 802 NW Quarry Rd. Albany,OR 97321Greg MeierSept. 13 – 16 Mt. Angel OktoberfestSept. 21 – 23 Oaks Park Oktoberfest Portland, ORSept. 28 – 29 Prost OktorbefestSept. 30 Astoria Oktoberfest 3 – 8 PMOct. 5 – 7 Calgary Oktoberfest, Alberta, CanadaOct. 12 – 13 Baruernhaus Oktoberfest, Kimberley, BC,CanadaOct. 19 – 20 Leavenworth Oktoberfest, Leavenworth,WAFri/Sat. evenings Mt. Angel Sausage Co. Restaurant.For scheduling information write: 38572 Park Ave.Sandy, OR 97055 503-668-7002. Fax 503-668-1058gsmeier@yahoo.comAndy MirkovichOct. 6 Polka Mass St. Martin of Tours in Fife, WA Massat 5 PM followed by dinner/dance in the parish hallFull scheduleprivateengagementsMaster Classes byappointment: 425-451-1256Murl Allen SandersEarshot JazzFestival 2012SeattleNov. 3, 7:30 PMwith Warren Randon saxTula’s Restaurant2214 2 nd Ave Seattle206-443-4221Full scheduleprivateengagements,regularperformances insynagogue andchurch, composing,and teaching.Bell & ReedACCORDIONWOODWIND* * *REPAIRTUNINGSALESRENTALSINSTRUCTION* * *www.bellandreed.comtel (206) 696-9054115 Prefontaine Pl S (401)Seattle, WA 98104by appointment42Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion NewsFor scheduling information write: murlsanders@cs.comPO Box 30553 Seattle, WA 98113, 206-781-8196Lyle SchaeferFor scheduling information write: 11704 15th Ave. EEdgefi eld, WA 98372 253-927-7760Sam’s Variety GemsSam Pecorilla: home 541-847-2282, cell 541-321-9088Smilin’ ScandinaviansAug. 19 Mercer Island Parks Concert Mercerdale Park7 – 8:30 PMToby also has regular gigs also with Jangles, aWestern Swing band, Cowgirl’s Dream, an Americanaband, and 1928, a classic jazz band.For scheduling information contact: Toby Hanson11123 216th St. E Graham, WA 98338 253-875-8580toby@smilinscandinavians.comhttp://smilinscandivanians.comDennis SchadduckChina Jade Restaurant 87th & Greenwood Ave. NSeattle Sunday nights.Joe SzaboFri – Sat. 6:30 – 9:30 PM Nonna Emilia’s RistoranteAloha, ORFor scheduling information: 13484 SW Devonshire Dr.Beaverton, OR 97005 503-641-2313Syl’s Ya Sure Ya Betcha Band (WA)Syl’s Arizona Dance Band and Polka BandSept 22 Sons of Norway Bothel, WA 8 – 11;30 PMSept 30 – 31 Bruno’s European Café 10716 A St. STacoma, WAOct. 6 Sons of Norway Bothel, WA 8 – 11:30 PMOct. 12 – 13 Deming Logging Show O’fest 1:30 – 6PM 3295 Cedarville Rd. Bellingham, WAFull schedule in Mesa and Apache Junction, AZ(Jan.- April, Nov. Arizona Schedule, 480-357-2585)For scheduling: Sylvia Jorgensen, WA contact: 253-845-9321, cell 253-678-7682squeezeboxsyl@yahoo.com, www.fjordsong.comSVEA TrioSvea Trio- Richard Svensson and Bjarne Jacobsen206-523-3245, svea3t@winwins.com www.winwins.com/sveatrio/NW AccordionairesContact: Cooksie Kramer 425-828-9104Most of our professional players keep their current andupdated performance schedules on their web sites.Advance scheduling is diffi cult and often fl uid. Consultthe contact information and web addresses for up to dateinformation. Support them when you can.Continued from page 41LEAVENWORTH INTERNATIONAL ACCORDIONCELEBRATION June 20- 23, 2013 Leavenworth, WA.www.accordioncelebration.org www.nwasnews.comKIMBERLEY OLD TIME ACCORDION COMPETITIONKIMBERLEY, BCJuly 8 - 13, 2013, www.kiotac.ca 1-888-4KIOTAC or 250-427-7318VICTORIA ACCORDION FESTIVALVictoria, British Columbia July , 2013www.bcaccordion.ca 1-778-433-8700FAIRBANKS SUMMER ARTS FESTIVALJuly , 2013 on the campus of U. of Alaska Fairbanks.www.fsaf.org contact 907-474-8869ACCORDION CELEBRATION – Historic WallaceWallace, ID August , 2013 www.wallaceIdahoChamber.comCOTATI ACCORDION FESTIVALCotati, CA August , 2013 www.cotatifest.com66 TH COUPE MONDIALEAugust 19 – 26, 2013 Victoria, B.C. Canada1 st time ever in CanadaWelcome New MembersBeverly R. Arralde, Yakima, WAKeith Berry, Renton, WAMicah Bisson, Bothell, WAHarry & Ardis Bolstad, La Crosse, WIDennis Classick, Rogue River, ORRick Dunifer, New Tazewell, TNGordy Groening, Surrey, BCHank Hackett, Lone Butte, BCDoug Kohnke, Aloha, ORJune McNeil, Edmonton, ABJeanne Olson, Cornelius, ORGreg Perry, Kirkland, WANora Stevens, Gaston, ORRemember, you are welcome to give gift memberships! Themembership form is on the last page of this publication.Is your NWAS membership due for renewal? Checkthe label on the back page! You can also request aPDF instead of or in addition to a hard copy!Deadline for Winter issueNovember 1!fall Quarter 2012 43

Northwest Accordion NewsNorthwest Accordion Society5102 NE 121st Ave. Unit 12Vancouver, WA 98682www.nwasnews.comMembership ApplicationAll funds in U.S. CurrencyMembership Type:Regular MembershipNorth AmericaU.S. - $20.00Canada - $25 (U.S. Funds)Outside North America$35 (U.S. Funds)New MembershipStudent MembershipAge 18 and UnderU.S. $15/yearCanada $20/year (US funds)RenewalPatron Membership$35/year U.S. fundsGift Membership from:Name:(Please Print)Street Address:City:State: Zip: Country:Telephone: ( )E-mail Address:(This will be used for INTERNAL to NWAS only and will not be sold or distributed elsewhere)I would like to receive the _____Electronic version (PDF) _____Hard copy ____Both typesPlease mail to: Northwest Accordion Society, 5102 NE 121st Ave. Unit 12, Vancouver, WA 98682.Include SASE (Self Addressed STAMPED Envelope) for membership cardAll funds in U.S. Currency44Fall Quarter 2012

Northwest Accordion Society5102 NE 121st Ave., Unit 12Vancouver, WA 98682-6164PRESORTEDSTANDARDU.S. POSTAGEPAIDBRBCHANGE SERVICE REQUESTEDCurrent MembersYour membership renewal date is specified on the mailing label. Please assist our volunteerstaff by sending in your renewal form before that date.Change of AddressTo avoid delay and extra cost, send address changes to the above address, or email as soonas possible. There is a $5 charge to resend undeliverable issues.New MembersWe encourage all individuals interested in supporting, playing, and/or promoting theaccordion to become members.Membership forms are inside the back cover.NORTHWEST ACCORDION SOCIETYMembership5102 NE 121st Ave., Unit 12, Vancouver, WA 98682-6164www.nwasnews.com